Step 1: trace unfolded envelope on to paper chosen for outside of envelope

step 2: cut out traced pattern, erase any pencil marks on edges for a cleaner look

step 3: fold edges over; bottom, sides, & top. look at original envelope if you need help knowing where to fold exactly.

step 4: take second sheet of paper, trace unfolded envelope without the sides. cut out the pattern, but cut 1/4” in from the traced line. you can use a ruler, or just approximate, like I did. I am not a perfectionist.

step 5: glue second sheet to inside of first sheet, leaving about 1/4” on all edges. once glue dries a bit fold again on previous folds of first sheet.

step 6: apply a line of glue to the folded in wings, then press down bottom flap.

Ta-Da! Finished.
To seal envelope you can use a sticker, or glue it shut.

I had a lot of fun Saturday night just making envelopes. Here are the ones I made:

Tips on paper selection:
– Use a variety of types of paper: patterned, solid, sheet music, pages torn from an old book, paper covers to hard cover books, painted paper.
– When using a paper that is not a solid color keep in mind where the patterns will fall on the finished envelope.
-If the pages from old books are too short you can glue 2 together to get the length needed. The place where they will be glued together will be hidden in the base of the envelope but the pattern will continue throughout.

I hope you enjoy making these little homemade envelopes as much as I did. Take a little break this week, make a couple envelopes, then mail a hand written letter to a friend.